This is the lightweight, sturdy little bag I didn't know I needed. I was on a 21 liter bag kick for years, but sold all of mine (Goruck, MR, ULA, RFF) after realizing I could pare down everything I needed for the day as a grad student and hospital chaplain into these 9 efficient liters. The size prevents me from carrying too much and getting fatigued. The Paradigm's design is short and squat, which I believe is the perfect design for accessibility, as opposed to all the sleek modern 17"+ tall packs that are less than 5" deep (which I feel are more for urban aesthetics than usability if you're not military/1st responder).
I love my Zeitgeist, but the Paradigm is an even better backpack with the 3D front pocket and lack of weather flaps. I know the Paradigm was designed to carry tablets, but I can squeeze my 13" MBP in with a folded hanky as padding at the bottom. My 16 oz REI Nalgene fits perfectly in the outer middle water bottle pocket. Other items I carry: Notebook, pens, novel, first aid kit, earbuds, laptop charger, phone, pager, mini flashlight, wallet, keys, gloves, hat, snacks...with room to spare. I find that the back panel and strap padding is supportive and comfortable enough. Everything about the Paradigm just works, and it is not overbuilt or over-designed. I'm obsessed. Thanks Tom Bihn for making this unicorn of pack!
